Sophisticated Living Indianapolis

MAR-APR 2017

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Festiva is quickly finding its legs. Tinker Street fans will feel right at home
in the same set-up of intimate dining room, social bar and heated enclosed
patio (serapes draped over the chairs are a fun, thoughtful detail). George gets
credit for the vibrant design and sunny, al fresco-feeling color schemes inside
and out. Patterned blue/green concrete walls in the dining room give off a
subtle pool party vibe.
"In keeping with the name, we wanted the feeling of a celebration," Main
said. "It's just a festive kind of place!"
Don't expect to load up on any old run-of-the-mill chips and salsa after
you've taken your seat. A mini cast-iron skillet of chicharrones greets guests
with crunchy bites of puffed wheat and crispy garbanzos that hint at spice,
lime and hot sauce. Addictive, adorable and a perfect complement to any of the
three margaritas on offer — the house blend, a top-shelf option and a seasonal
variation. (Festiva also serves beer, wine and sangria.)
Local mixology master Jason Foust has built Festiva's beverage program,
as one might expect, on the cornerstones of tequila and mezcal.
"We wanted to hone in on classic Mexican cocktails and put our own
twist on them," he said. "ere's so much rich tradition and heritage behind
agave spirits, and so much to learn about them."
The Margarita Estacional makes a lovely first impression, an easy-
sipping floral potion of Camarena Blanco tequila, fresh blood orange
juice, habanero and hibiscus. Among a shortlist of craft cocktails, Foust
touts the "Urban Sombrero" — mezcal with cucumber, serrano, corn, lime
and aromatic cilantro oil; and the "Champurrado," a smooth yet fiery
combination of Patron Incendio, cinnamon, milk and chocolate liqueur.
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